Category: Horse
-
Summer So Far – A Little Update from the Yard

It’s been a scorcher here in the UK, and with the heat showing no signs of stopping, we’ve shifted most of our riding to the evenings, much cooler and far more enjoyable for everyone involved! The girls have moved onto their summer paddocks and are now living out 24/7. We’re…
-
The Modern Equine Crisis: A Shift in Challenges

The term “equine crisis” gained popularity in 2021 to describe the pressure faced by animal welfare charities regarding the amount of equines in the UK requiring intervention. The crisis has been associated with the overpopulation of horses, widespread neglect, and abandonment. Recent research suggests that while the original crisis has…
-
Essential Autumn Tips for Horse Care and Management

As the vibrant greens of summer begin to fade and the cooler temperatures settle in, it’s time to start thinking about how to best prepare your horses for autumn. The changing season brings its own set of challenges, but with the right management plan, you can ensure your horse remains…
-
The Three Fs: Ensuring a Species-Appropriate Life for Horses

As equestrians, it is our duty to provide the horses in our care with a species-appropriate life centred around their three essential needs: friends, forage, and freedom. Understanding and fulfilling these needs is crucial not only for the physical health of our horses but also for their mental and emotional…
-
Tips for Working with a Nervous Horse

Working with a nervous horse can be both a challenging and rewarding experience. Horses, like humans, have their own personalities, and some are naturally more anxious than others. Understanding and addressing the root of their nervousness is key to building a strong and trusting relationship. Having a nervous youngster myself,…
-
Bit by Bit: A Comprehensive Bitting Guide to Comfort and Communication

Fitting a bit correctly is essential for your horse’s comfort and safety. A bit is not just a piece of metal that sits in a horse’s mouth, it is a tool for communication between horse and rider. Poorly fitting tack is often underestimated as a significant contributor to equine discomfort…
-
Can A Horse Be Truly ‘Bombproof’?

Most people have now heard the news of five loose military horses bolting around central London earlier this week. It has raised many questions regarding the use of working horses in the military and the police force, causing a divide on social media between traditional usage and practicality in the…
-
Knowing When It’s Time: Equine Euthanasia

For those who follow my social media accounts, you will be aware that earlier this week I took the difficult decision to put my beautiful Bam Bam to sleep. Through all of her medical issues, we had stuck by her and hoped the treatment would make her more comfortable, she…
-
Understanding Equine Pain: How to Recognise Signs in Your Horse

As horse owners, it’s our responsibility to ensure the well-being and comfort of our horses. One crucial aspect of this care is being able to recognise signs of pain, unlike humans, horses can’t verbally express when they’re hurting, so it’s essential to be vigilant and observant of their behaviour and…
-
Feeding Horses With Ulcers

When you first discover your horse has ulcers, one of the first things to come to mind is their diet going forward. Is what im feeding now safe? What changes will I have to make? But do not panic! Feeding a horse with ulcers does not have to be a…